UAE residence visa in 2026: types, requirements, and key nuances

The UAE remains one of the most popular relocation destinations among Russian-speaking residents: zero personal income tax, modern infrastructure, and a business-friendly immigration climate. At the same time, there is no concept of a “residence permit” in the European sense. Instead, the UAE offers a residence visa valid for 2 to 10 years, granting the right to live, work, open a bank account, and sponsor family members.

Let’s review all current visa types, key requirements, and important nuances you should know before applying.

The flagship long-term residency program. Its key advantage over other visa types is the absence of the 180-day rule: you may live outside the UAE for any length of time without losing your status. No sponsor is required.

Who Can Apply

• Real estate investors — property valued at AED 2,000,000 (~$545,000); mortgages allowed (minimum 50% paid); off-plan properties accepted.
• Public fund or business investors — capital from AED 2,000,000.
• Startup founders — project valued at AED 500,000 with business incubator accreditation.
• Outstanding talents — doctors (10+ years’ experience), scientists, AI/IT/cybersecurity specialists, cultural professionals.
• Top-100 university graduates with GPA 3.8+.

Additional Benefits

• Sponsorship of children of any age (no 25-year limit).
• Family members retain status even if the main holder’s visa expires.
• Visa fee: approximately $380–400, plus Emirates ID, medical exam, and insurance costs.

A 5-year self-sponsored visa — positioned between the work visa and Golden Visa. No employer sponsor is required, and the financial threshold is lower than for the Golden Visa.

Freelancers and Self-Employed

• Freelance permit from MOHRE.
• Bachelor’s degree or relevant qualification.
• Annual income of at least AED 360,000 (~$98,000) over the past two years.

Employed Specialists

• UAE employment contract.
• Job classified as Level 1–3 by MOHRE.
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Salary from AED 15,000/month (~$4,085).

Important Nuance
Green Visa holders must comply with the 180-day rule — absence from the UAE for more than 180 consecutive days leads to automatic visa cancellation. This is a major difference compared to the Golden Visa.

Application cost: AED 2,000–3,000.
Processing time: 2–6 weeks.

The 180-Day Rule
Applies to all visa types except the Golden Visa. Absence from the UAE for more than 180 consecutive days results in automatic cancellation. Exceptions include medical treatment abroad, government assignments, and study abroad (under Dubai-specific regulations).

Fines and Grace Period
Since 2025, overstay fines are AED 50 per day (previously AED 25).
After visa expiry, a grace period applies:

• 30–60 days for most categories
• Up to 6 months for Golden Visa holders

From 2026, visa renewal is blocked if traffic or administrative fines remain unpaid — check your records in advance.

Medical Examination
Mandatory upon first issuance and each renewal. Includes blood tests and chest X-ray. HIV, hepatitis B/C/D, tuberculosis, or syphilis are grounds for refusal. Pregnant applicants may skip the X-ray with a medical certificate.

No Special Restrictions
The UAE has not introduced specific restrictions for Russian citizens — all programs remain available under standard requirements.

Notification to Russian Authorities
Under Russian Federal Law No. 138-FZ, residents must notify the Ministry of Internal Affairs within 60 days of their first entry into Russia after obtaining foreign residency.
If you do not return to Russia, notification is not currently mandatory.

However, a draft law by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs may make notification mandatory starting in 2028 — even for permanent residents abroad.

Taxes
Individuals in the UAE pay no personal income tax.
If residing more than 183 days per year, you may obtain a UAE tax residency certificate, which can help restructure tax residency status. Interaction with the Russian tax system requires individual analysis.

Banking
Opening a bank account requires a residence visa and Emirates ID. Some UAE banks request additional documents from Russian clients due to sanctions compliance — check requirements in advance.

1. Determine the appropriate visa type and confirm eligibility.
2. Obtain an Entry Permit — via employer, independently, or through an intermediary (valid for 60 days).
3. Enter the UAE — biometric data and retinal scan at the border.
4. Complete the medical examination at an accredited center.
5. Apply for Emirates ID via ICP or GDRFA portal.
6. Obtain mandatory medical insurance.
7. Receive visa approval and Emirates ID.

Alternative OptionIf you are already in the UAE on a tourist visa, you may change status without leaving the country (“in-country status change”) for an additional fee.

Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

• Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
• Complete transparency and support at every stage.
• A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
• Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!